Industry partnerships drive innovation in Singapore

A recent documentary by South Korean broadcaster KBS featured NTU, highlighting its strong partnerships with global industry players and its role in advancing research and innovation.

The programme featured NTU Professor Cho Nam-Joon, Director of the Centre for Cross Economy, who is leading efforts to bridge academia and industry within the Jurong Innovation District.

The programme also profiled joint corporate laboratories that leading industry players set up with NTU, including the Continental-NTU Corporate Lab and the Schaeffler Hub for Advanced Research (SHARE) at NTU, focused on technologies such as autonomous robotics, artificial intelligence and intelligent transportation systems.

NTU’s Vice President (Industry), Professor Lam Khin Yong, explained the university’s commitment to driving innovation through collaboration and how it is aligned with Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 plan.

“And it's important to know that our plan is called research, innovation and enterprise — research leading to innovation and growing enterprise. I can say everyone, not just NTU, contributes to the vibrancy of the innovation district,” said Prof Lam.

In regards to the Jurong Innovation Distract which was once an ordinary manufacturing zone, it has since transformed into a hub for leading industries.

Prof Cho, who has witnessed this growth firsthand, believes similar success is possible for other areas, including South Korea.

“I believe the foundation that our country (South Korea) possesses is very strong — we have talent, innovation, and unique strengths like advanced manufacturing that are distinct to Korea. If these advantages are strategically supported, I believe Korea can become an attractive and competitive country from an international perspective.”